BATON ROUGE, La. — A grand jury will review the case of at least one of the three individuals charged with criminal hazing linked to the death of Southern University student Caleb Wilson, according to an attorney representing one of the suspects.
Franz Borghardt, representing Isaiah Smith, stated that a bond review hearing for his client in the 19th Judicial District Court went smoothly. Borghardt confirmed that the state intends to bring the case before a grand jury in September.
Smith was arrested in March following Wilson’s death and was released on a $25,000 bond on the same day. The case has garnered significant attention, raising concerns about hazing practices in Greek organizations.
Another suspect, Kyle Thurman, also attended a bond hearing on Monday. Initial court records mistakenly indicated that a bench warrant had been issued for Thurman’s absence. However, subsequent revisions clarified that the hearing proceeded without incident. Thurman’s bond includes conditions prohibiting him from contacting the other accused individuals and baring him from possessing firearms.
Reports from local news outlets indicate that Smith held the position of “Dean of Pledges” for the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. He is reportedly one of three accused individuals who allegedly attacked fraternity pledges using boxing gloves. Arrest documents reveal that Wilson collapsed after being punched for the fourth time by Caleb McCray, the first individual charged in connection with the incident that took place on February 26. McCray had his bond hearing on May 29.
After the alleged incident, Wilson suffered a seizure and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. McCray is facing charges of criminal hazing and manslaughter as a result of Wilson’s untimely death.
Authorities have stated that the suspects altered Wilson’s clothing before seeking medical assistance. Reports indicate they left the hospital prior to police arrival and did not contact emergency services.
As the case progresses to a grand jury, it highlights ongoing concerns about hazing practices and accountability within college fraternities.
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